The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) continued to expand its conservation, restoration and community-based environmental initiatives during May, June and early July 2026, advancing a wide range of national and regional projects that strengthen biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and the Hima approach.
Throughout the reporting period, SPNL focused on project implementation, technical reporting, proposal development, regional cooperation and field activities, while reinforcing partnerships with municipalities, civil society organizations, international donors and BirdLife International.
Hima Approach Continues to Gain Momentum
A major milestone was the successful organization of the Third and Final Hima Forum, held on 26 May 2026 in Hammana, where SPNL presented the achievements of the BioConnect project and highlighted the growing role of the Hima model in conserving biodiversity through community leadership.
The organization also participated in the BioConnect closing event in Maaser El Chouf on 10 June, showcasing project outcomes and supporting discussions on ecological connectivity and protected landscapes. Preparations included updating SPNL’s national Hima map, reviewing the Climate Change Framework, developing educational materials for the Mobile Marine Exhibit, and supporting event organization and outreach.
SPNL further promoted the Hima model through a discussion session organized jointly with the Lebanon Eco Movement at AUT-Fidar on 18 June, emphasizing community stewardship as a practical approach for sustainable natural resource management.
Strengthening Nature-Based Solutions and Climate Resilience
Work continued under the Al Murunah and Al Murunah+ projects, with SPNL participating in regional webinars and Project Management Team meetings focused on nature-based solutions for climate adaptation and water security.
The projects aim to enhance climate resilience in North Bekaa through flood mitigation measures, improved agricultural practices, women’s empowerment and capacity building for municipalities, farmers and local institutions.
Restoring Wetlands and Building Local Capacity
Significant progress was achieved under the PROZHUM project, where SPNL continued developing the management plan for the Anjar Wetland while participating in regional knowledge exchange activities.
The organization also expressed interest in joining a new regional knowledge exchange proposal and selected two SPNL participants to attend specialized regional trainings, reinforcing technical expertise in wetland conservation and restoration.
Towards Lebanon’s First Natural Park
Implementation of the Swiss-funded SDC project—Beirut River Valley: Towards Establishing Lebanon’s First Natural Park—continued with the preparation of the baseline assessment and Natural Park Charter, coordination meetings with municipalities, and training activities.
A highlight of the month was the successful graduation event held in Aitat, celebrating local engagement in protecting the Upper Beirut River Valley while strengthening cooperation with municipalities including Ras El Matn.
Tackling Pollution in the Upper Litani Basin
SPNL advanced implementation of the DIMFE project, which seeks to reduce pollution entering the Upper Litani River Basin and Qaraoun Lake.
The technical team finalized and submitted interim technical and financial reports, launched cooperation with wastewater and dairy industry experts, conducted multiple field visits to dairy factories in West Bekaa, and initiated discussions with laboratories and private sector partners to identify practical pollution treatment solutions.
Regional Collaboration and Proposal Development
SPNL remained actively engaged with BirdLife International through the Important Key Biodiversity Areas (IKBs) programme, participating in regular regional meetings and the “Caring for Conservationists” learning sessions designed to strengthen the wellbeing and resilience of conservation professionals.
The organization also contributed to regional discussions on behaviour change related to hunting, prepared presentations highlighting project achievements, and began coordinating with BirdLife International on the development of a potential fourth phase of the IKB programme.
Meanwhile, SPNL continued expanding its partnerships by:
- Collaborating with UN-Habitat on a concept note for the Awali Watershed under the Adaptation Fund.
- Developing a full European Union proposal together with Caritas Austria and regional partners following the successful pre-selection of the concept note.
- Sharing the SPNL Hima Identification and Management Manual with Palestinian environmental expert Dr. Mazen Qumsiyeh to support knowledge transfer across the region.
Looking Ahead
During the coming months, SPNL will continue implementing its flagship conservation programmes by completing BioConnect reporting, advancing the DIMFE and SDC projects, finalizing management plans and baseline assessments, supporting the development of Lebanon’s first Natural Park, expanding Hima initiatives, and pursuing new regional funding opportunities that strengthen biodiversity conservation and community resilience.
Through these initiatives, SPNL continues to demonstrate that effective conservation is built on scientific expertise, strong partnerships and the active participation of local communities, ensuring that nature protection contributes directly to sustainable development across Lebanon.
